Key Takeaways
- Researchers have developed new antibodies targeting Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which infects 95% of adults.
- The antibodies block EBV by targeting proteins that allow the virus to enter B cells.
- Findings could benefit organ and bone marrow transplant patients at higher risk of EBV complications.
Scientists from Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and the University of Washington have made significant progress in combating the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common virus that infects approximately 95% of adults worldwide, according to Yahoo Finance.
The virus, known for causing few or no symptoms in most cases, can remain in the body for life and has been linked to several cancers, multiple sclerosis, and other health issues.
The research team developed 10 new antibodies that specifically target two proteins on the surface of EBV, known as gp350 and gp42, which are crucial for the virus to enter B cells, a key component of the immune system.
In experiments using mice with human-like immune systems, one of the antibodies provided strong protection against EBV infection, demonstrating the potential of these new treatments.
The researchers used specially bred mice capable of producing genetically human antibodies, which could improve the chances of these antibodies being tested in human trials.
For organ and bone marrow transplant patients, who often receive immune-suppressing medicines and are at a higher risk of serious EBV-related complications, these findings could be particularly important.
The research was published in Cell Reports Medicine, marking a significant step towards developing a treatment for EBV, though further testing is required before human trials can be conducted.
While the antibodies show promise, the researchers caution that more extensive testing is necessary to evaluate their effectiveness and safety in human subjects.
